Faith community lives on in changing times

AT 11.30am on Sunday morning, members of the Our Lady Help of Christians parish left Mass at St Joseph’s Catholic Church Learmonth for the final time.

Gathering for 161 years, and 144 in the current brick church on High and McKay Streets, the St Joseph’s community were sombre but celebratory as Bishop Paul Bird conducted the service.

In the last two decades, attendance at the twice monthly Masses had decreased to five regulars, but OLHC parishioners like Phyllis Bourke said the “faith community” still continues, more like a family than friends.

She said it was “lovely” to hear stories from the past in the final service, having been in the parish for 48 years.

“I had a son and a grandson baptised here, 46 and 11 years ago. I’ve got close connections to this church and whenever we came to Learmonth, we were always welcomed,” she said.

“It was always lovely to have a chat after and the community spirit is wonderful. That’s why I look forward to Mass, to see everyone.”

Mrs Bourke said she was emotional about the closure.

“I wore black for sadness and colour for celebration today,” she said.

Bishop Paul Bird was reflective throughout the service.

“The final Sunday Mass in this church brings with it a certain sadness,” he said. “At the same time, it’s a time for thanksgiving for all the blessings of the years, and there have been many years that people have gathered here for mass,” he said.

St Joseph’s regulars will attend other churches in the parish, whether at Waubra, Lexton, Beaufort, Wendouree or Miners Rest.